Chapter 103: Has Miss Gone to Deliver a Sneak Attack Again? (First Update)

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Wu Tan sat in the carriage heading to the Lin family’s residence, her heart still uneasy. She recounted the entire sequence of events to Wu Qingyu. Wu Qingyu, discerning the gravity of the situation, did not argue this time but told her everything he had witnessed on the road when he met Lin Yanyao, including the conversation he overheard between the two bandits in the trees.

After listening, Wu Tan couldn’t help but grimace, slapping the table and declaring, “It must have been that scoundrel Jiang Pingzhi.”

Wu Qingyu knew who Jiang Pingzhi was. “Him? I remember he’s related to your cousin, right?”

Normally, Wu Tan wouldn’t discuss such matters with him, but with the feud between the Jiang and Lin families now public and widespread, the matter was no longer private. She explained roughly, “Their mothers had verbally agreed to a childhood betrothal.”

Wu Qingyu pondered for a moment, then quickly understood, “So that brat has his eye on someone else?”

Otherwise, he wouldn’t have resorted to such a despicable scheme to sully a young lady’s reputation.

Wu Tan sneered, “To be precise, he’s climbed even higher.”

Wu Qingyu’s curiosity was clearly piqued. Since they still had a while before reaching the Jiang residence, sitting idly only made them more anxious. Wu Tan proceeded to recount the entire situation in detail.

After hearing it all, Wu Qingyu sighed, “I didn’t expect that kid to be such a ruthless character.”

Although the marriage was arranged by their mothers, even if he favored someone else, he could have handled it with some decency. Instead, unable to control his own mother, he took it out on the girl.

Wu Qingyu, half a playboy himself, admitted he couldn’t think of such underhanded tactics. He added with a hint of schadenfreude, “That young madam of the Pingguo Duke’s family isn’t any better—why would she harm her own niece?”

Noticing Wu Qingyu's tone was less than solemn, Wu Tan shot him a glare. “When we arrive at the Lin estate, if you don’t have anything sensible to say, keep quiet. Don’t add fuel to the fire.”

Wu Qingyu snorted but knew better than to joke further and let her scold him without retorting.

They hurried to the Lin household, arriving well past midnight. The entire estate was brightly lit; clearly, no one in the family expected to rest that night.

The venerable Lin patriarch stayed up with them, while Lady Li remained with Lin Yanyao. Lin’s eldest son, Lin Xiucheng, and his two grandsons were called to the study after Lin’s meeting with Hu Tianming, who had come by to inquire about the incident and express thanks before taking his leave.

“Second son, you decide what we do next. How shall we proceed?” The old man was blunt, acknowledging the family’s exhaustion after a whole afternoon and night of turmoil.

With a grave expression, Lin Xiucheng replied with respect, “Father, although the Jiang family’s actions were cruel, this concerns Yao’er’s reputation and future. Even if I wish they were torn apart, we cannot drag this into the public courtroom…”

Lin Yanju, hot-tempered as ever, snapped, “Father, do you mean we should swallow this insult? Let those bastards from the Jiang family get away with it?”

Lin Yanying, the calmer brother, stepped forward to pull him back. “Wait, haven’t you heard father out?”

“But…” Lin Yanju worried his father might settle for appearances and let it drop.

Lin Yanying silenced him and stood firmly beside their father.

The old patriarch, always steady, urged Lin Xiucheng to continue.

Lin Xiucheng sighed, “For Yao’er’s future, it’s best not to publicly confront the Jiang family now. We need to calm the rumors quickly. I’m thinking of sending her to stay with her eldest uncle, so she won’t have to endure the whispers in the capital.”

There was no other way. Jiang Pingzhi had struck where there were many witnesses, and the incident had already stirred the city into an uproar by afternoon. With reinforcements from the Jingzhao Prefecture dispatched and the night’s developments, the scandal would surely explode by dawn.

Though Lin Yanyao was unharmed, her reputation would be forever tarnished in the capital’s gossip. If she couldn’t bear it and took drastic measures, that would be a tragedy.

The brothers exchanged looks and agreed it was the only viable solution.

Sending Lin Yanyao far from the city was the safest option. Lin Xiuxun, though stationed elsewhere, was a respected governor and could protect his niece, even help her find a suitable marriage.

As long as she escaped the capital’s whirlpool, Lin Yanyao could live well.

The old patriarch sighed, “This should be done sooner rather than later. Arrange it quickly.”

Lin Xiucheng nodded, “Yes. I’ll write to my eldest brother tonight. Lady Li is already talking to Yao’er about this. I hope to have her leave within three to five days.”

Though it seemed like a hasty retreat, their priority was shielding Lin Yanyao from the scandal and the cruel gossip.

The old man nodded and then asked, “Anything else…”

Lin Xiucheng knew what he meant but felt powerless. Facing his elderly father, he lowered his head in shame. “The Jiang family’s actions cannot go unanswered, but I’m helpless…”

The old patriarch had long withdrawn from court politics but remained fiercely protective of his family. Though reluctant to intervene at his age, he would not ignore this.

His response was calm: “Just knowing you have this spirit is enough. Don’t involve yourselves in the Jiang family’s affairs anymore…”

The three men exchanged glances. Lin Yanju, impatient, pressed, “Grandfather, do you have a plan?”

The old man did not want them to act rashly and revealed, “Before Qinglin left, he confided in me that arrangements have been made, though it will take time to conclude. For now, hold your anger. Some matters aren’t urgent. As for the Jiang family’s engagement proposal, don’t try to rescind it for now. Wait for them to make the first move. They will have to wear the blame for this.”

Hearing this, Lin Yanju wanted to pry further but was stopped by Lin Yanying’s warning glare.

The patriarch waved them off and reminded Lin Xiucheng, “Handle Yao’er’s arrangements swiftly. Hu Tianming will come by tomorrow; instruct him to visit me as well.”

Lin Xiucheng agreed, and seeing how late it was, quickly took his sons and left.

Wu Tan and Wu Qingyu were led directly into the courtyard by the doorman.

Though Lady Li was unwell, she suppressed her discomfort, knowing her daughter’s situation was far worse. She had remained with Lin Yanyao since her return, offering comfort.

She had expected her daughter to be terrified after such an ordeal but was surprised. While Lin Yanyao was downcast and saddened, she neither cried nor caused a scene. When Lady Li cautiously mentioned sending her to live with her uncle in Jiangbei, Lin Yanyao accepted calmly.

Lady Li found her normal behavior comforting yet was deeply troubled by her excessive calm and silence. As she anxiously kept watch, Yang Mama arrived with Wu Tan and Wu Qingyu.

“Madam, the young lady’s cousin has arrived!” Yang Mama was delighted Wu Tan came. The madam feared Lin Yanyao’s calm was a fragile mask and that without company, she might despair.

Having a close cousin to keep her company might help.

To Lady Li, only two young ladies were considered cousins, and only Wu Tan would come at such a time.

Grasping this lifeline, Lady Li eagerly rose to greet her. “Tan’er, you’ve come…”

She clasped Wu Tan’s hand, signaling urgently to the room.

Wu Tan replied, “I’ve come to keep my cousin company.”

“Good, good!” Lady Li nodded vigorously. She held back tears earlier but now turned away to wipe them. Looking up, she noticed Wu Qingyu following behind and froze.

Even though he accompanied Wu Tan, why had Yang Mama brought a young man here so late at night?

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Seeing her expression, Yang Mama quickly explained, “Madam, this is the second son of the Marquis of Dingyuan…”

Years ago, the old patriarch had strictly forbidden contact with the Wu family. Although Lin Yanyao often visited the Wus, Lady Li had dared not.

She had no impression of Wu Qingyu and this was the first time she met him.

Though the connection between Meng Shi and Wu Xun’s son made her uneasy, Hu Tianming had previously explained everything to their family, revealing that he was their daughter’s savior. She set aside grudges and nearly knelt before Wu Qingyu in gratitude.

“I heard from Magistrate Hu that Yao’er’s safe return was thanks to you…”

Wu Qingyu was startled and quickly stopped her, fearing she might actually kneel.

“No! We Lin family will remember this kindness forever. I will prepare gifts and thank you properly,” Lady Li said, overwhelmed but trying to regain composure. She then turned to Wu Tan, “Tan’er, you came just in time. Please stay with her. I…”

Her voice choked on the words, afraid her daughter might lose hope.

“Madam, if the cousin talks with her for a bit, won’t you want to go check on the nourishing broths in the kitchen?” Yang Mama gently urged, wary of Lady Li breaking down in front of Lin Yanyao.

Once Lady Li left, Lin Yanyao heard the movement and stayed seated, facing away, expecting her mother and Wu Tan to speak privately.

After Lady Li departed, Lin Yanyao steadied herself and rose.

Wu Tan lifted her skirt and stepped inside.

Lin Yanyao turned and gave a small smile. “Tan’er? Why are you here at this hour?”

“Cousin!” Wu Tan opened her mouth but found herself unusually speechless.

She looked at Lin Yanyao, trying not to show pity or sorrow, but the girl’s rapid fall from grace stirred a flood of emotions she struggled to contain.

Seeing Wu Tan hesitate, Lin Yanyao smiled again, “It’s okay, I’m fine.”

Her smile was sincere, but Wu Tan saw the red-rimmed eyes and stubbornness beneath and felt a pang of pain.

“I’ve heard everything about today…”

“I know!” Lin Yanyao interrupted swiftly. “Don’t worry. I won’t lose hope. I’ll be fine. If I die, it only pleases them, turns their mockery into victory, right?”

A girl raised in comfort, suddenly faced with such upheaval—no one could truly understand her pain.

Her smile was forced. Seeing Lin Yanyao’s tear-filled eyes and stubbornness, Wu Tan stepped forward and embraced her softly.

“Why pretend in front of me? Cry if you’re sad. I won’t mock you.”

Lin Yanyao buried her face in Wu Tan’s neck, tears streaming silently.

She did not cry out; Wu Tan felt the warmth soak into her shoulder. After an unknown time, Lin Yanyao wiped her eyes secretly and stepped back, still smiling.

“I’m fine now. Crying for those people is beneath me. I’d rather this than marry that monster and live a miserable life. Don’t you think?”

She repeated this in her heart over and over.

No matter the grievances or hatred, what’s done is done. That night, she had many dark thoughts, even fleeting desires to end it all.

But she still had family, parents. If she died, the pain would be unbearable for them. She could not be so selfish.

Since her parents’ only hope was for her to live well, she’d grit her teeth and endure, even if it meant leaving the capital.

Wu Tan had never imagined her usually gentle cousin could bear such hardship with such courage.

But her smile still broke her heart.

No! Even though her eldest brother promised to restore her honor someday, she couldn’t swallow this humiliation silently.

Wu Tan’s resolve hardened. She looked at Lin Yanyao. “Cousin, since there’s nothing to do at home, let me take you out for a walk?”

Lin Yanyao’s expression froze. Who would go out at this hour?

“Come on! We’re just killing time. I’ll help you vent this anger!” Wu Tan tugged her without waiting.

Wu Qingyu, to avoid awkwardness, stayed outside the room at first, leaning against the railing. Later, when he saw the two girls crying, he wandered the courtyard.

Wu Tan dragged Lin Yanyao out, then grabbed Wu Qingyu. “Hey! Help me out here!”

Wu Tan raised an eyebrow, self-righteous.

Wu Qingyu hesitated, then, seeing Lin Yanyao’s confused but resigned expression, understood her intention. He smirked, “Let’s go!”

He strode ahead.

Wu Tan and Lin Yanyao followed, and Wu Tan told a maid waiting outside, “Tell Second Aunt that I took cousin to the Marquis’s mansion to play.”

At this hour, why would the young lady go out? Nonsense.

The maid hurried to tell Lady Li.

Lady Li had just refreshed herself with ginseng tea and nearly jumped up. “Those two kids, this is madness! Go get them back!”

She rushed to the door but was stopped by Yang Mama.

“Madam,” Yang Mama signaled, “Let the young lady go out and get some air. Remember, the Jiang family’s trouble isn’t over. They’ll probably come by tomorrow. Better she’s not here to face them and get upset.”

Lady Li’s blood chilled.

Indeed, the Jiang family’s stunt aimed to end the betrothal, and at this critical moment, they’d likely come soon.

Better that Lin Yanyao was not at home to suffer more.

Reluctantly, she let go.

Wu Tan had been a little reckless, but in serious matters, she was still sensible. Lady Li felt reassured with Lin Yanyao accompanied by her cousin.

The Wu siblings hurriedly left the Lin estate. Wu Tan helped Lin Yanyao into a carriage.

Wu Qingyu, after ensuring they were all aboard, said, “I’ll scout ahead. You two need to change clothes at the Marquis’s mansion. It’s too risky to confront anyone dressed like this at night. We wait until dawn. When I’m ready, I’ll come back for you.”

“No need!” Wu Tan was confident. “Why wait till dawn? He’s home now. We just need to lure him out. Get on the carriage; we’ll change there and then go together. It’s less risky under cover of darkness.”

Wu Qingyu doubted her. “Lure him out? Are you sure?”

“Enough chatter!” Wu Tan rolled her eyes. “If you don’t trust me, go stake out yourself.”

Though skeptical, Wu Qingyu followed. It was late, and he didn’t want the two girls returning alone to the mansion.

They changed into men’s clothing at the Wu residence, then set off again.

Only when the carriage stopped outside a back alley near the Jiang residence in the north of the city did Lin Yanyao realize Wu Tan intended to confront Jiang Pingzhi.

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She hesitated, “Coming to the Jiang family at this hour… What can we do?”

Wu Tan had a plan. “You two hide by the door. I’ll lure him out.”

Wu Qingyu was doubtful. “Is she crazy?”

Ignoring him, Wu Tan boldly knocked on the back door.

Lin Yanyao and Wu Qingyu crouched in the shadows nearby, sweat trickling from their nerves.

Wu Tan’s approach was similar to the trick she used on Huo Yunhua: she told the gatekeeper she was from the Princess of Qingyang’s household with urgent business to see the Jiang family’s second son.

The gatekeeper dared not offend a princess’s household, though puzzled by their familiarity with the second son. He hurried inside to inform them.

Wu Qingyu’s lip twitched. This girl was born for deception. Her fibs were so natural and convincing that, if Wu Qingyu didn’t know she wasn’t from the princess’s household, her performance would have fooled anyone.

Jiang Pingzhi deserved every hit he got.

The three came prepared with sticks.

Wu Tan stood confidently in the alley. Wu Qingyu grabbed a broken basket of rotten vegetable leaves near the door.

Jiang Pingzhi had barely fallen asleep when he was told the princess’s household was looking for him. Unaware of today’s events, he quickly dressed and came out.

“May I ask…” he said cautiously, eyeing Wu Tan in the dark alley.

Wu Tan cut him off, “The princess’s carriage is outside,” pointing toward the street.

Jiang Pingzhi, unfamiliar with her, thought she was a maid of Li Xun’er.

He glanced in the direction, saw the carriage in the night, and told the gatekeeper to close the door as he stepped outside.

Wu Tan led him toward the street. It was dark and windy, in a narrow alley flanked by high walls. Jiang Pingzhi, distracted by how to explain the day’s events to Li Xun’er, did not notice Wu Tan’s face.

Wu Qingyu followed about twenty paces behind with the basket. Judging the gatekeeper wouldn’t hear, he suddenly lunged and smashed the basket over Jiang Pingzhi’s head.

Rotten leaves covered his face and filled his mouth. He nearly passed out.

Wu Tan snatched a wooden stick from Wu Qingyu and struck Jiang Pingzhi’s knee. His leg buckled, and he dropped to one knee.

The basket fell, and Jiang Pingzhi tried to resist. Wu Qingyu raised his foot and stomped hard on one side of Jiang’s face, trapping his head between his shoe and the wall.

His strength was great; Jiang Pingzhi felt his skull might burst if he struggled further. He dared not move and began clawing at the shoe sole.

Wu Qingyu twisted his arm off and ground Jiang’s cheek into the mud on his shoe. Jiang Pingzhi trembled but couldn’t even cry out in pain, utterly trapped.

Lin Yanyao had never seen such a scene. She stood frozen, clutching a stick, unsure what to do.

Wu Qingyu pulled her closer and gestured to encourage her.

Lin Yanyao’s hatred for Jiang Pingzhi ran deep. Her blood seemed to boil, her heart trembling with rage.

If they didn’t fight back, who would?

After a brief hesitation, she raised her stick and swung wildly.

Unskilled and clumsy, her fury overwhelmed her. She beat Jiang Pingzhi for nearly fifteen minutes until exhausted and gasping.

Seeing the girls stop, Wu Qingyu withdrew his foot.

Jiang Pingzhi lay sprawled, motionless as a dead dog.

Wu Qingyu asked, “Should I cripple his legs?”

Wu Tan tugged at him, dissuading him from further harm.

Wu Qingyu rubbed Jiang’s face in the mud again, kicked him against the wall, then allowed Wu Tan to pull him away.

Seeing Lin Yanyao still stunned, he took her hand.

They dared not linger in the Jiang family’s alley and fled to the carriage.

On the way back, Wu Qingyu was still displeased. “You come all this way just to tap that punk on the head? At least break a leg!”

Wu Tan shot him a sharp glance and smirked, “If we cripple him, Li Xun’er will run away. We need him to hold Li Xun’er in place so we can deal with them both at once.”

“Heh heh heh…” Wu Qingyu sulked. “Your eldest brother taught you that?”

Wu Tan ignored him.

The siblings bickered briefly, then noticed Lin Yanyao suppressing laughter beside them. When she caught their eyes, she finally let loose with a hearty laugh.

“It’s funny. Hitting him makes me feel much better.”

Truly, the ancient notion of justice bringing satisfaction held merit. Bottling anger breeds illness; releasing it brings relief.

She was genuinely happy now, smiling freely.

After all the trouble, dawn was near. Wu Qingyu didn’t take them straight home but toured the West Market street, buying a dozen local delicacies for them to enjoy later.

When the carriage returned to the Dingyuan Marquis’s mansion, the sun was up. Wu Tan and Lin Yanyao happily stepped down but saw Yang Mama speaking with the Wu household’s doorman.

“Yang Mama? Why are you here so early?” Lin Yanyao asked.

Yang Mama’s face turned pale at her voice, trembling with anxiety.

Sure enough, the Jiang family had come early to demand the broken engagement. Lady Li, worried Lin Yanyao might run into them, had sent Yang Mama to secretly warn Wu Tan to distract her cousin. Unexpectedly, the two girls returned early.

—End of chapter note—

Got a bit carried away writing this chapter; it’s longer than usual. Sorry for the delay, but no cliffhangers here—show some love please! ╭(╯^╰)╮

P.S. The sneak attack is apparently the Wu siblings’ signature move. Looks like they should patent it →_→

This book is original; please do not repost!